Occupational medicine: opportunities for family physicians

Occupational medicine has grown recently in sophistication and strength. Occupational physicians with specialty certification focus their attention on toxicology and health hazards in the workplace, compliance with regulatory requirements, and preventive services. These physicians are often employed by organizations. Most occupational health care will continue to be provided by family physicians, who may also be the physicians closest to the workers and their families. There are many opportunities for family physicians to develop their skills in occupational health care and to incorporate occupational medicine into their practices.